Turkish Cypriot Leader Brings Message of Unity to EU

Confronted with tough problems from the Mideast to Ukraine to Bosnia, European Union leaders this week appeared to greet with relief a leader who they think holds out the prospect of solving a conflict rather than perpetuating it.

Mustafa Akinci, the new president of Turkish Northern Cyprus, has been pushing for reconciliation with the Greek-dominated southern portion of the island. Mr. Akinci was in Brussels to seek support from EU leaders.

It seems he got it. The presidents of the three major EU institutions met with him personally. European Parliament President Martin Schulz proclaimed “deep satisfaction about the steps you have undertaken.” Various EU officials showed “belief and willingness to contribute to a solution,” Mr. Akinci said.